Ross' Blog

I competed in my first ever triathlon yesterday, which also
marked the first time wearing spandex outside the house (photo intentionally
deleted). I had a fabulous time competing, but Olympian Simon Whitfield can
sleep peacefully knowing that I will not be challenging any of his records any
time soon.

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I decided that in my mid 30’s it was time to try something
new in order to stay in shape. I was getting bored of doing the same old thing at
the gym (when I went). I decided on triathlons, because I love to swim, I enjoy a good bike
ride, and I can tolerate running for 10 kilometers.

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The biggest obstacle when starting anything new of course is
getting over your fears: fear of failure, fear of looking foolish, fear of not
finishing or finishing last. But like many things we do in life, most of our
fears only exist in our heads, and rarely play out in reality. Life has taught
me that my biggest fear in life, is not living it.

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You learn a lot about yourself when you try something new,
sports, business or otherwise. You learn to push your personal boundaries and discover
what your capable of. You learn from you mistakes, your achievements, and
improve a little each time you do it.

Pink eye related to bacterial eye infections can
cause a lot of swelling and produce sticky green discharge, resulting in eyes
that are often ‘glued’ shut in the morning. Bacterial eye infections are more
commonly seen in contact lens wearers and can result from our skins own
bacteria.

Pink eye related to viral infections is by far the
most common cause, and is caused by the same virus that results in the common
cold. Viral pink eye will usually result in a watery eye with little to no
discharge, but may still be crusted shut in the morning. Viral pink eye is the
most contagious of all pink eyes, which is why it hangs out in preschools,
daycares and work environments.

Pink eye related to allergies is more common after
coming in contact with allergens and is often associated with other physical
symptoms like stuffy nose, itchy skin or swollen eyes. People often complain of
itching and may want to rub their eyes.

Pink eye can also be related to some more serious eye
conditions like scleritis, uveitis, or iritis. These eye conditions require
more urgent care, and will generally not resolve on their own if left
untreated.

Regardless of the cause of your pink eye, it’s important
to get an accurate diagnosis by your optometrist to ensure that the treatment
matches the condition. Please don’t touch anyone until you see us, and we’ll
let you know if you are contagious.

Please
Note:Alberta Health Care now covers the cost of emergency eye care visits to
your optometrists office – there is no charge to you as a patient.

3 years ago I made an impulsive decision to drive to Saskatchewan and get a dog. So far I have no regrets, in fact this has turned out to be one of the best decision of my life. My dog has managed to restore balance to my at times chaotic and overworked life. She is always the first one to greet me when I get home at night and hyperventilates out of excitement, which is both cute and kind of scary.

Medically, pets can provide substantial health benefits for their owners. Pets help reduce stress, increase personal fitness and act as an anti-depressant by putting a smile on their owners face. Pets also provide someone to talk to when no one else will listen.

Over the past few years my dog has taught me a number of valuable life lessons, which I try to live up to.

Get excited when you see your family, friends and co-workers

Take time for a nap

Play each and every day

Go for a walk

Routine is ok

Treats are ok, sometimes

Drink plenty of water

Your body language says a lot

Stay curious

Forgive and forget quickly

Life is short

Talk to your neighbour

If dogs are not for you, then consider getting a cat like by business partner Dr. Bakelaar or a whole bunch of fish like my friend Pete. Good medicine doesn’t always have to come in the shape of a pill.